On the use of trains to airports, I think more people use this method than some realise. I always travel to BHX by train. There are frequent services from where I am by Virgin and Arriva. The station is of a very high standard and has a couple of shops, 2 restaurant/bars, Virgin lounge, ATM etc. flight departure/arrival displays and linked directly to the airport terminals by the air/rail link. There are direct services to most large UK cities, and at most one change to virtually the whole UK. Train is the best way to the airport IMHO.